The Name Barrett: Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Barrett is a strong, classic name with Celtic and English roots. This name has steadily increased in popularity over the past decades, making it a stylish choice for modern parents.

Origin and Meaning

The name Barrett originated as an Old English surname derived from the given name Bartholomew. It comes from the Aramaic name Bartolmai, meaning "son of Talmai" or "son of the furrows." Over time, the name evolved from Bartholomew to Bartle to Barrett.

Common variations and spellings of the name include Barett, Baret, Barratt, and Barritt. While the name is most frequently used for boys, it can occasionally be found as a feminine name as well.

Popularity and Notable Name Bearers

In 2022, Barrett ranked #208 on the list of most popular boys' names in the United States, with 5,395 babies given the name. It has steadily climbed the charts in recent years, up from #259 in 2021 and #312 in 2020.

Some well-known men who bear the name Barrett include:

• Barrett Foa, American actor known for his role on NCIS: Los Angeles
• Barrett Strong, American singer-songwriter and one of the first artists to record for Motown Records
• Barrett Jackman, former professional ice hockey defenseman in the NHL

Name Style and Traits

Barrett is considered a classic, masculine name with a touch of ruggedness. It appeals to parents seeking a strong, traditional name for their son. The name has a bold, assertive feel that evokes qualities like independence, intelligence, and dependability.

Some positive attributes commonly associated with the name Barrett include:

• Confident and self-assured
• Analytical and logical
• Hardworking and ambitious
• Protective and loyal

The name Barrett flows well with many middle and last names, especially those with a similar one- or two-syllable rhythm. Some complementary name pairings could include:

• Barrett Alexander Sinclair
• Barrett Nathaniel Emerson
• Barrett Thomas Fitzgerald

Cultural and Literary References

In literature, the name Barrett appears in works such as Elizabeth Barrett Browning's famous poems, which feature her husband, Robert Browning. The name has also been used for characters in television shows like NCIS: Los Angeles and movies like The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

Alternative Name Suggestions

If you're drawn to the classic, strong style of the name Barrett, you may also want to consider these alternative name ideas:

• Connor - An Irish name meaning "lover of wolves"
• Declan - An Irish name meaning "full of goodness"
• Finley - A Scottish name meaning "fair-haired hero"